Hawker Beechcraft Names New Leadership for Special Mission Product Line

To expand its ongoing efforts in the global Special Mission market, Hawker Beechcraft Corporation (HBC) today announced the appointment of Terry Harrell and Justin Ladner as vice presidents and general managers of its Special Mission Product Line. The company continues to be a world leader in Special Mission aircraft, ranging from military applications such as Intelligence, Surveillance & Reconnaissance and maritime patrol, to commercial applications such as photographic, air ambulance, flight inspection and weather modifications.

As HBC vice president and general manager of U.S. Government & Department of Defense (DoD), Harrell will focus on Special Mission growth opportunities within the U.S. Government and DoD organizations. He has 30 years of experience in the design and development of complex tactical aircraft. Prior to joining HBC in 2008, Harrell held several key leadership roles within Lockheed Martin’s fighter aircraft development programs, including the F-35 Lightening II Joint Strike Fighter and the T-50 Advanced Supersonic Trainer. He holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical aerospace engineering from Oklahoma State University, as well as certificates from Lockheed Martin’s Senior Leadership Institute.

Ladner, as HBC vice president and general manager of Commercial and International, will focus on Special Mission growth opportunities within international military organizations and the company’s global commercial sales regions – The Americas, Europe/Middle East/Africa, and Asia/Pacific. He has 21 years of experience in general aviation and joined HBC in 2005, having served most recently as the director for International Special Mission Programs where he led multiple aircraft modification and support programs including the Iraqi Air Force Peace Dragon Program and the U125A Program for Japan. Prior to joining HBC, Ladner owned and operated an aircraft maintenance, modification and sales business in the Wichita area. He has a bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering from Wichita State University and is a private pilot. He is also an Honorary Squadron Commander for the 931st Air Refueling Group AMXS at McConnell AFB.

Hawker Beechcraft Corporation is a world-leading manufacturer of business, special mission and trainer aircraft – designing, marketing and supporting aviation products and services for businesses, governments and individuals worldwide. The company’s headquarters and major facilities are located in Wichita, Kan., with operations in Salina, Kan.; Little Rock, Ark.; Chester, England, U.K.; and Chihuahua, Mexico. The company leads the industry with a global network of more than 100 factory-owned and authorized service centers. For more information, visit www.hawkerbeechcraft.com.